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  • The Daily Brief: Newsom Signs Landmark Hollywood Tax Credit, Frequent Tarantino Collaborator Michael Madsen Passes, and more.

The Daily Brief: Newsom Signs Landmark Hollywood Tax Credit, Frequent Tarantino Collaborator Michael Madsen Passes, and more.

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Good Afternoon! It’s Thursday, July 3.

Thursday saw sunny skies across Los Angeles with temperatures peaking at a high of 79°. The sun will stick around for the holiday weekend with sunny conditions expected all weekend long and a high of 82° projected for Friday’s holiday.

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Newsom Signs $750M Tax Credit to Revive Film & TV Production in California

Governor Gavin Newsom has signed a landmark bill that more than doubles California’s film and TV tax credit program to $750 million annually, aiming to bring entertainment jobs and productions back to Los Angeles. Flanked by Mayor Karen Bass and industry leaders at Warner Bros. Studios, Newsom touted the move as key to making California competitive again. With 16 new productions already lined up—including “NCIS: Origins” and “Mr. & Mrs. Smith”—the initiative is expected to create thousands of jobs and reignite filming at iconic L.A. locations.

Activist Develops ICEBlock App to Warn Communities of Nearby ICE Activity

After witnessing years of deportations and family separations, activist and app developer Joshua Aaron created ICEBlock—a free iPhone app that alerts users in real time when ICE is nearby. Designed with total anonymity and community protection in mind, the app has drawn sharp criticism from federal officials, but Aaron insists it’s a necessary tool for staying safe in an increasingly hostile environment.

Deandre Ayton Joins Lakers After Trail Blazers Buyout

Former No.1 draft pick Deandre Ayton is officially a Laker after negotiating a $25 million buyout from the Trail Blazers. The 26-year-old center, known for consistently averaging a double-double, fills a critical gap in the Lakers’ frontcourt following the departure of Anthony Davis. Ayton, returning to Southern California, says he’s “ready to get to work.”

Rose Bowl Trades Fireworks for Drones in Historic Fourth of July First

This Independence Day, the Rose Bowl in Pasadena is making history by swapping its traditional fireworks for a 700-drone light show. The move comes amid growing environmental and wildfire concerns following recent devastating blazes. The 15-minute drone display kicks off at 9 p.m. and promises a high-tech celebration that’s just as dazzling—without the smoke.

Michael Madsen, Iconic Tarantino Actor, Dies at 67

Michael Madsen, the gravel-voiced actor known for unforgettable roles in Reservoir Dogs and Kill Bill, has died at his Malibu home at age 67. A frequent collaborator of Quentin Tarantino, Madsen leaves behind a legacy of memorable villains and a career spanning four decades. Authorities report no foul play. Two final projects—a film and a book—will be released posthumously.

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The Face of Beautiful Smiles: Karla Thompson, DDS

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